Aluminium Dodecaboride
Aluminum dodecaboride (AlB12) is a chemical compound composed of aluminum and boron. Its crystal structure belongs to the rhombohedral system with space group R-3m. The unit cell contains 13 atoms, including one aluminum atom and twelve boron atoms arranged in a icosahedral structure.
AlB12 has a high melting point of 2200°C, high hardness, and good thermal and electrical conductivity. It is also chemically inert and resistant to oxidation in air at high temperatures. These properties make AlB12 a promising material for applications in cutting tools, wear-resistant coatings, and high-temperature electronic devices.
However, the synthesis of pure AlB12 is challenging due to the formation of various boron-rich impurities during the fabrication process. Several techniques have been developed to overcome this issue, such as reactive hot pressing, spark plasma sintering, and chemical vapor deposition.
In summary, aluminum dodecaboride is a promising material with unique properties, but its synthesis requires careful attention to avoid the formation of boron-rich impurities.